Equinox Gold Corp. confirmed that its Valentine Gold Mine in Newfoundland & Labrador has entered commercial production, operating at an average throughput of 5,451 tonnes per day—about 80 % of its 6,850‑tonne‑per‑day nameplate capacity—while achieving a gold recovery rate above 93 % on a lower‑grade feed of 1.2 g/t.
Management projects Valentine to deliver between 15,000 and 30,000 ounces of gold in the fourth quarter and to reach full nameplate capacity by the second quarter of 2026. Once at capacity, the mine is expected to contribute 150,000 to 200,000 ounces of gold annually, a significant boost to Equinox’s overall output and cash flow profile.
CEO Darren Hall praised the team’s execution, noting that “the operation is performing well, with plant availability, throughput, and recoveries exceeding commissioning period expectations.” He added that the early ramp‑up “has positioned Valentine to reach nameplate capacity ahead of schedule, reinforcing our strategy to grow Canadian gold production.”
The commercial production milestone de‑risks the Valentine project and strengthens Equinox’s position as a high‑quality, low‑cost producer in the Americas. The mine’s throughput and recovery metrics indicate efficient plant operations, while the projected 2026 production levels will help the company achieve its goal of becoming the second‑largest Canadian gold producer. Phase 2 studies that could double mill throughput to 5 million tonnes per year further signal long‑term growth potential.
Equinox’s recent Q3 2025 earnings beat—driven by strong production at Greenstone and Valentine, disciplined cost management, and a favorable gold price environment—has already bolstered investor confidence. Analyst upgrades and a 52‑week high in early November reflect the market’s positive view of the company’s expanding Canadian footprint and robust cash‑flow generation.
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